Air Southwest praises CAA decision to introduce TLZ

22/05/2010

By Nick Jones

Air Southwest has welcomed the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) decision to relax regulations surrounding flying near volcanic ash.

The carrier, which operates flights from a number of bases including Bristol Airport, said that the decision to allow flights to operate within the new time limited zone (TLZ) with prior consent would "significantly reduce the risk of flight disruption".

In order to fly in the TLZ, airlines must present a safety case to the CAA which includes an agreement from aircraft and engine manufacturers.

Air Southwest commercial director Mike Coombes labelled the announcement "great news" for customers following weeks of disruption and cancellations.

"Our flights are operating as scheduled. However, if this changes Air Southwest will endeavour to do everything possible to continue flying and the new Time Limited Zone will help us do that," Mr Coombes said.

According to the CAA, low-cost carrier Flybe was the first airline to be granted approval to fly in the new zone.

Operation within the TLZ could be subject to time limits and increased maintenance practices, the organisation added.